Prevent Fires
Every homeowner probably knows of at least one family who has lost their home to fire through lighting strikes or other causes. Horrible situations that sometimes could not have been avoided. However, as a homeowner, you cannot give the fire added fuel.
TIPS:
Add stone. Stone paths and patios do not burn. Not only does it look fantastic, stone provides no fuel for fire.
Clear out the dead. Grass, limbs, bushes, leaves that are piled up are all tinder for a fire. Keep up with your landscape maintenance and get rid of these sources of fuel.
Consider Impact-Proof Doors and Windows
All doors are not created equal. There are hollow doors, wood doors, aluminum doors and even steel doors. An impact proof door is very simply a door that can inhibit high winds that can cause structural damage to your home.
Not only will they offer extra protection from storms, but they also provide great insulation from hot and cool temperatures, noise, and potential intruders.
For more information on Impact Windows and Doors, check out FEMA’s article.
TIPS:
Installing impact resistant doors and windows could get you a discount on your home insurance.
Also, check to see if you are eligible for any tax credits.
Evaluate Your Insurance
Often insurance gets purchased during the fog and confusion of purchasing your home, and sometimes your policy is never really scrutinized again.
Annually, you need to review your coverage. Chances are you have invested much more money into your home, since your original purchase and your coverage may be woefully inadequate.
Check out the Insurance Institute’s Guide to help determine just how much insurance you need.
TIPS:
Look specifically for your damage (flood and fire) coverages.
Also ask for any discounts you may be eligible for newly added alarm systems, impact windows and doors etc.
Fire Extinguishers
Home Fires are a scary reality and while we have already covered some ways not to add fuel to the fire, all homeowners need fire extinguishers, and they need more than one. Homes with more than one floor, need a minimum of one on every floor. Large homes with sprawling floorplans need more than one on every floor.
TIPS:
If your fire extinguisher is old, it could be weak and not operational. Check that the locking pin is intact and the pressure gauge or indicator is pointing to “full”. (Sometimes this is a green bar.)
For a guide, check out FEMA’s website and read Choosing and Using Fire Extinguishers
Check out Karen’s complete list of trusted professionals at Salter’s Sources if you need help with some of these or other homeowner projects.
Karen wishes everyone a glorious and safe fall. Please contact her for any and all your real estate needs. Subscribe to her newsletter for more real estate news and information that makes you an empowered buyer, seller and homeowner.
